Fluid couplings

ABSTRACT

Some fluid coupling devices described herein are configured as non-spill fluid couplings. In addition, some embodiments described in this document relate to fluid coupling devices that are constructed modularly, and to modules that can be universally incorporated into the construction of multiple different types of fluid couplings. Further, fluid handling component coupling members are described.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Application Serial No.17/139,444 filed on Dec. 31, 2020, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application Serial No. 62/955,783, filed Dec. 31, 2019. Thedisclosure of the prior application is considered part of (and isincorporated by reference in) the disclosure of this application.

BACKGROUND 1. Technical Field

This document relates to fluid coupling devices for fluid systems andmethods of their use. For example, some embodiments described in thisdocument relate to fluid coupling devices that are constructedmodularly, and to modules that can be universally incorporated into theconstruction of multiple different types of fluid couplings.

2. Background Information

Fluid systems commonly include components such as tubing, pumps,reservoirs, fittings, couplings, heat exchangers, sensors, filters,valves, seals, and the like. Such components can be connected togetherin a network using selectively coupleable fluid coupling devices todefine one or more fluid flow paths. Some fluid systems are closedsystems, meaning that the fluid recirculates within the network ofcomponents. Other fluid systems are open systems, meaning that the fluidpasses through the network of components just a single time prior toexiting the network.

Fluid coupling assemblies typically include a female coupling device anda male coupling device that are releasably connected to each othercreate a fluid flow path therethrough. Such coupling assemblies can beused in various applications, including biomedical applications,beverage dispensing, instrument connections, photochemical handling,liquid cooling, ink handling, and others.

In the context of some fluid systems, such as a fluid system for liquidcooling of electronics, it may be desirable to use non-spill couplingsthat have minimal or zero fluid spillage during connection anddisconnection of the male and female couplings. Such non-spill couplingswill serve to limit the exposure of the electronics to the fluid thatcould damage the electronics, for example.

SUMMARY

This document describes fluid coupling devices for fluid systems andmethods of their use. For example, some embodiments described in thisdocument relate to fluid coupling devices that are constructedmodularly, and to modules that can be universally incorporated into theconstruction of multiple different types of fluid couplings. In thecontext of this disclosure, the term “fluid” includes both gases andliquids. The fluid coupling devices described herein may also bereferred to herein as male and female couplings, “coupling halves,”and/or “connectors.” Male couplings may also be referred to herein as“inserts,” and female couplings may also be referred to as “bodies.”

In some embodiments described herein, the fluid coupling devicesdescribed herein have a modular construction. That is, one or both ofthe coupling halves can include a core module that can be used invarious types of fluid coupling outer bodies. In some embodiments, thecore module includes a valve and one or more fluid seals.

In particular embodiments, the fluid coupling devices described hereinare specifically designed with one or more mechanical components toconfigure the devices as “non-spill” coupling devices. The devicesdescribed herein are referred to as non-spill coupling devices becauseas the male and female portions of the coupling devices are beingconnected to each other and/or disconnected from each other, the designsof the fluid coupling devices will reduce the likelihood of fluiddischarge out of the fluid system (for example, by blocking as suchdischarge paths) and by preventing spillage related to fluid inclusionwithin the fluid coupling devices.

In one aspect, this disclosure is related to a fluid coupling devicethat includes a fluid coupling housing defining a first opening leadingto a coupling internal space defined within the fluid coupling housing.The fluid coupling device also includes a termination portion extendingfrom the fluid coupling housing on an end of the fluid coupling housingthat is opposite of the first opening. The termination portion defines asecond opening leading to the coupling internal space. The fluidcoupling device also includes a fluid coupling module disposed withinthe coupling internal space. The fluid coupling module includes a modulehousing defining a module internal space. The fluid coupling module alsoincludes a stem affixed to the module housing and extending within themodule internal space along a longitudinal axis of the fluid couplingmodule. The fluid coupling module includes a valve sleeve disposedbetween the stem and the module housing. The valve sleeve is movablealong the stem within the module internal space between: (i) a closedposition in which the valve sleeve seals the first opening off from thesecond opening and (ii) an open position in which the first opening isfluidly connected to the second opening via the module internal space.

Such a fluid coupling device may optionally include one or more of thefollowing features. The fluid coupling may also include an elastomericseal disposed between the module housing and the fluid coupling housing.The fluid coupling device may also include: (i) a first elastomeric sealdisposed between the stem and the valve sleeve while the valve sleeve isin the closed position; (ii) a second elastomeric seal disposed betweenthe valve sleeve and the module housing while the valve sleeve is in theclosed position; and (iii) a third elastomeric seal disposed within themodule internal space and positioned between the second elastomeric sealand the first opening. In some embodiments, a majority of an innerdiameter surface of the third elastomeric seal is spaced apart from thevalve sleeve while the valve sleeve is in the closed position. The fluidcoupling device may also include an annular spacer disposed between thesecond and third elastomeric seals. The stem may include a base that isaffixed to the module housing. The base may define openings that fluidlyconnect the second opening to the module internal space. In someembodiments, the openings comprise four openings that are each shaped asa quarter circle. The stem may include a base that is affixed to themodule housing, and the fluid coupling may also include a springdisposed between the base and the valve sleeve that biases the valvesleeve toward the closed position. The fluid coupling device may alsoinclude a latch mechanism adjacent to the first opening. The latchmechanism may be transversely movable relative to the fluid couplinghousing between: (i) a latched position in which a center of an openingdefined by the latch mechanism is transversely offset in relation to acenter of the first opening and (ii) an unlatched position in which theopening defined by the latch mechanism is concentric with the firstopening. The fluid coupling device may also include a spring between thelatch mechanism and the fluid coupling housing that biases the latchmechanism toward the latched position.

In another aspect, this disclosure is related to a fluid couplingmodule. The fluid coupling module includes a module housing defining aninternal space and a longitudinal axis. The module housing includes: (i)a first end defining a first end opening leading to the internal spaceand (ii) a second end defining a second end opening leading to theinternal space. The fluid coupling module also includes a stem having abase that is affixed to the second end of the module housing. The stemextends from the base along the longitudinal axis toward the first end.The fluid coupling module also includes a valve sleeve disposed betweenthe stem and the module housing. The valve sleeve is movable along thestem within the internal space between: (i) a closed position in whichthe valve sleeve seals the first end opening off from the second endopening and (ii) an open position in which the first end opening isfluidly connected to the end second opening.

Such a fluid coupling module may optionally include one or more of thefollowing features. The base may define openings that fluidly connectthe second end opening to the internal space. In some embodiments, theopenings comprise four openings that are each shaped as a quartercircle. The stem may also include a head on an end of the stem oppositeof the base. The head may define an annular seal groove configured toreceive an elastomeric seal. The fluid coupling module may also include:(i) a first elastomeric seal disposed within the annular seal groove andin contact with an inner diameter of the valve sleeve while the valvesleeve is in the closed position; (ii) a second elastomeric sealdisposed between an outer diameter of the valve sleeve and the modulehousing while the valve sleeve is in the closed position; and (iii) athird elastomeric seal disposed within the module internal space andpositioned between the second elastomeric seal and the first endopening. The fluid coupling module may also include an annular spacerdisposed between the second and third elastomeric seals. The annularspacer may be in contact with each of the second and third elastomericseals. The fluid coupling module may also include a spring disposedbetween the base and the valve sleeve that biases the valve sleevetoward the closed position.

In another aspect, this disclosure is directed to a fluid couplingassembly. The fluid coupling assembly includes a male coupling and afemale coupling that are releasably coupleable to each other. The malecoupling includes a male housing defining an internal space and alongitudinal axis. The male coupling also includes a male coupling valvemember within the internal space and slidable relative to the malehousing along the longitudinal axis of the male housing between: (i) anopen position in which a first end of the male housing is fluidlyconnected to a second end of the male housing via the internal space ofthe male housing and (ii) a closed position in which the male couplingvalve member fluidly blocks the first end of the male housing from beingfluidly connected to the second end of the male housing. The femalecoupling includes a female housing defining a first opening leading toan internal space defined within the female housing. The first openingis configured to receive an end portion of the male housing. The femalecoupling also includes a termination portion extending from the femalehousing on an end of the female housing that is opposite of the firstopening. The termination portion defines a second opening leading to theinternal space of the female housing. The female coupling also includesa fluid coupling module disposed within the internal space of the femalehousing. The fluid coupling module includes a module housing defining amodule internal space. The fluid coupling module also includes a stemaffixed to the module housing and extending within the module internalspace along a longitudinal axis of the fluid coupling module. The fluidcoupling module also includes a valve sleeve disposed between the stemand the module housing. The valve sleeve is movable along the stemwithin the module internal space between: (i) a closed position in whichthe valve sleeve seals the first opening off from the second opening and(ii) an open position in which the first opening is fluidly connected tothe second opening via the module internal space.

In some embodiments, the male and female couplings are configured suchthat the act of operatively coupling the male coupling with the femalecoupling moves: (i) the male coupling valve member from its closedposition to its open position and (ii) the valve sleeve from its closedposition to its open position, resulting in creating an open fluid flowpath through the fluid coupling assembly via the internal space of themale housing and the module internal space.

In another aspect, this disclosure is related to a fluid coupling devicethat includes a fluid coupling housing defining a first opening leadingto a coupling internal space defined within the fluid coupling housingand a second opening leading to the coupling internal space. The fluidcoupling device also includes a fluid coupling module disposed withinthe coupling internal space. The fluid coupling module includes a modulehousing defining a module internal space. The fluid coupling module alsoincludes a valve assembly disposed within the module internal space. Thevalve assembly is configured to be in: (i) a closed position in whichthe first opening is sealed off from the second opening or (ii) an openposition in which the first opening is fluidly connected to the secondopening via the module internal space.

Particular embodiments of the subject matter described in this documentcan be implemented to realize one or more of the following advantages.First, some embodiments of the fluid coupling devices provide animproved non-spill connection and disconnection capability that mayadvantageously reduce or eliminate fluid spillage in some cases. Assuch, these embodiments of the fluid coupling devices described hereinmay be well-suited, for example, for use in fluid systems that provideliquid cooling to electronics such as computers and the like. Anotherbenefit from the non-spill design of the fluid couplings describedherein is the minimization of the inclusion of air into the fluid systemas the couplings are connected to each other.

Second, in some embodiments the fluid couplings are advantageouslyconstructed modularly. Such a modular construction may provideadvantages such as manufacturing flexibility and user flexibility. Forexample, a single module can be designed for use in multiple differentform factor types of fluid couplings. Accordingly, modular constructionscan facilitate associated manufacturing efficiency advantages andinventory carrying cost reductions. Users of modular fluid couplings mayalso benefit from reduced costs due to the need to carry fewer and/orless costly spare parts.

Third, some embodiments of the fluid coupling devices provided hereinare advantageously designed with a robust latching system. That is, whenthe two halves of the coupling are operably connected with each other toprovide a fluid flow path therethrough, they are also mechanicallylocked together. In some embodiments, to release the lock, a thumb latchmust be depressed first. This latching system may reduce the likelihoodof unintentional disconnections.

Fourth, in some embodiments, the fluid coupling devices mayadvantageously provide a user with audible and/or tactile feedback inreference to the motions performed for physically disconnecting the twoportions of the fluid coupling devices from each other. Such audibleand/or tactile feedback can provide the user with an efficient andconclusive indication or confirmation of the proper function and desiredconfiguration of the fluid coupling device.

Fifth, in some embodiments, the fluid coupling devices mayadvantageously provide an indication of the temperature of the fluidinside of the coupling by comprising a color-changing material (e.g., athermochromic polymer) which is responsive to temperature.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this disclosure pertains. In addition, the materials,methods, and examples of the embodiments described herein areillustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are set forth inthe accompanying drawings and the description herein. Other features,objects, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from thedescription and drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fluid coupling assembly including anexample male fluid coupling device and an example female coupling devicearranged in a separated configuration, in accordance with someembodiments provided herein.

FIG. 2 is an end view of a front face of the female fluid couplingdevice of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the female fluidcoupling device of FIG. 1 taken along the break line 3—3 of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an example fluid coupling module that isdesigned for containment within the female fluid coupling device of FIG.1 .

FIG. 5 is another perspective view of the fluid coupling module of FIG.4 .

FIG. 6 is an end view of the fluid coupling module of FIG. 4 .

FIG. 7 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fluid couplingmodule of FIG. FIG. 4 taken along the break line 7—7 in FIG. 6 .

FIG. 8 is another end view of the fluid coupling module of FIG. 4 .

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another exemplary type of fluid couplingdevice that can incorporate the fluid coupling module of FIG. 4 .

FIG. 10 is an end view of a front face of the fluid coupling device ofFIG. 9 .

FIG. 11 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the fluid couplingdevice of FIG. 9 taken along the break line 11-11 in FIG. 10 .

FIGS. 12-14 show a perspective view, side view, and longitudinalcross-sectional view of a valve sleeve component of the female fluidcoupling device of FIG. 1 .

FIGS. 15-17 show a perspective view, side view, and longitudinalcross-sectional view of a stem component of the female fluid couplingdevice of FIG. 1 .

FIGS. 18-20 show a perspective view, top view, and longitudinalcross-sectional view of a housing component of the female fluid couplingdevice of FIG. 1 .

FIGS. 21-23 show a perspective view, side view, and longitudinalcross-sectional view of the male fluid coupling device of FIG. 1 .

FIGS. 24-26 show a perspective view, top view, and longitudinalcross-sectional view of the coupling assembly of FIG. 1 with the maleand female couplings engaged together in an operative configuration thatdefines an open fluid flow path therethrough.

FIG. 27 shows a perspective view of an example fluid handling componentcoupler in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 28 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an example femalefluid coupling device that includes the fluid handling component couplercollar of FIG. 27 .

FIG. 29 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of an example male fluidcoupling device that includes the fluid handling component couplercollar of FIG. 27 .

Like reference numbers represent corresponding parts throughout.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIG. 1 , some example embodiments of a fluid couplingassembly 100 include a female coupling 110 and a male coupling 180 thatare releasably coupleable to each other. Here, the female coupling 110and the male coupling 180 are depicted in their uncoupled or unconnectedarrangement. While the female coupling 110 and the male coupling 180 areuncoupled (as depicted), no open fluid flow path through either of thefemale coupling 110 or the male coupling 180 exists. Instead, the valveswithin each of the female coupling 110 and the male coupling 180 areclosed such that no fluid can flow through either of the female coupling110 or the male coupling 180, as described further below.

In contrast to FIG. 1 , FIGS. 24-26 (described further below) depict thefemale coupling 110 and the male coupling 180 in their fully coupled,operative arrangement. While the female coupling 110 and the malecoupling 180 are in their fully coupled arrangement, a fluid flow path101 (FIG. 26 ) is opened such that fluid can flow through the fluidcoupling assembly 100 between a termination portion 112 of the femalecoupling 110 and a termination portion 182 of the male coupling 180.That is, while the female coupling 110 and the male coupling 180 are intheir coupled arrangement, a fluid flow path 101 is opened such thatfluid can flow through each of the female coupling 110 and the malecoupling 180. In other words, the termination portion 112 of the femalecoupling 110 and the termination portion 182 of the male coupling 180are fluidly connected while the female coupling 110 and the malecoupling 180 are in their coupled arrangement.

While the termination portion 112 of the female coupling 110 and thetermination portion 182 of the male coupling 180 are depicted as barbedconnections, it should be understood that the coupling halves 110 and180 can have any type of connections such as, but not limited to,threaded connections, elbows, tees, sanitary fittings, compressionfittings, and the like, and combinations thereof.

The materials from which one or more of the components of the fluidcoupling assembly 100 are made of include thermoplastics and/orthermosets. In particular embodiments, the materials from which thecomponents of the fluid coupling assembly 100 are made of arethermoplastics, such as, but not limited to, acetal, polycarbonate,polysulfone, polyether ether ketone, polysulphide, polyester,polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polyethylene, polyphenylsulfone (PPSU;e.g., Radel®), polyetherimide (PEI; e.g., Ultem®), polypropylene,polyphenylene, polyaryletherketone, and the like, and combinationsthereof. In some embodiments, the materials from which one or more ofthe components of the fluid coupling assembly 100 are made of includemetals such as, but not limited to stainless steel, brass, aluminum,plated steel, and the like. In particular embodiments, one or both ofthe coupling halves 110 and 180 is/are metallic-free. In someembodiments, one or both of the coupling halves 110 and/or 180 includesone or more metallic spring members (e.g., spring steel, stainlesssteel, and the like). In certain embodiments, the fluid couplingassembly 100 includes one or more gaskets or seals that are made ofmaterials such as, but not limited to, silicone, fluoroelastomers (FKM),ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE),buna, buna-N, thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV), and the like. In someembodiments, the couplings or portions thereof can be constructed from acolor-changing material (e.g., a thermochromic polymer) that isresponsive to temperature. Accordingly, the color of such a coupling canprovide an indication of the temperature of the fluid inside of thecoupling.

It should be understood that the components of the fluid couplingassembly 100 (e.g., the female coupling 110 and the male coupling 180)are scalable to virtually any desired size. Accordingly, the fluidcoupling assembly 100 can be scaled to connect a wide range of differenttubing sizes from very small tubing (e.g., 3 mm in diameter or smaller)to very large tubing (e.g., 50 mm in diameter or larger).

FIGS. 2 and 3 show the female coupling 110 with additional detail. Thefemale coupling 110, broadly described, includes a female housing 120,the termination portion 112 extending from the female housing 120, and afluid coupling module 140 disposed within an internal space defined bythe female housing 120. The female housing 120 defines a first opening122 that is configured to receive an end portion 184 of the malecoupling 180 (also refer to FIG. 1 ). The termination portion 112defines a second opening 113.

The female coupling 110 defines a longitudinal axis 111. In the depictedembodiment, the termination portion 112, the fluid coupling module 140,and the first opening 122 are centered on the longitudinal axis 111.

The fluid coupling module 140 (which is depicted in isolation in FIGS.4-8 ) is and can be considered as a distinct, self-contained componentpositioned within the female coupling 110. In other words, while thefluid coupling module 140 is depicted here within the female housing 120as a part of the female coupling 110, it should be understood that thefluid coupling module 140 can be universally incorporated in a widevariety of different types of fluid couplings. In one additionalnon-limiting example, as described further below, the fluid couplingmodule 140 can be incorporated within a dual female fluid couplingdevice 200 (as depicted in FIGS. 9-11 ). In some cases, the fluidcoupling module 140 can be a stand-alone product.

The female coupling 110, as depicted, also includes an optional latchmechanism 130 and a spring 138. The latch mechanism 130 is operable toreleasably lock or latch the female coupling 110 and the male coupling180 together in their fully coupled arrangement (e.g., as shown in FIGS.24-26 ). In some embodiments, no latch mechanism is included. Rather,the female coupling 110 and the male coupling 180 are together by otherexternal forces applied to the female coupling 110 and/or the malecoupling 180.

The spring 138 is disposed between a thumb plate 132 of the latchmechanism 130 and the female housing 120. The latch mechanism 130 istransversely movable relative to the longitudinal axis 111 between alatched position (as shown) and an unlatched position in which the thumbplate 132 (and latch mechanism 130 overall) is moved transversely towardthe longitudinal axis 111 (i.e., downward in the context of FIG. 3 ).The spring 138 biases the latch mechanism toward the latched position.

The latch mechanism 130 defines an opening 134. While the latchmechanism 130 is in the latched position (as shown), the center of theopening 134 is laterally offset from the longitudinal axis 111 and fromthe center of the first opening 122. Accordingly, in the latchedposition, a crescent-shaped portion 135 of the latch mechanism 130 ispositioned within the area defined by the first opening 122 (see FIG. 2). While the latch mechanism 130 is in the unlatched position, thecenter of the opening 134 is coincident with the longitudinal axis 111and with the center of the first opening 122. Accordingly, thecrescent-shaped portion 135 is no longer within the area defined by thefirst opening 122 while the latch mechanism 130 is in the unlatchedposition. During connection of the female coupling 110 and the malecoupling 180, the force from the insertion of the male coupling 180 willcause the latch mechanism 130 to move to its unlatched position, andthen the latch mechanism 130 will revert to its latched position whenthe male coupling 180 is fully inserted in the female coupling 110.

FIGS. 4-8 show the fluid coupling module 140 in isolation so that itsstructure can be described in greater detail. The fluid coupling module140 is a distinctly separate, self-contained component that has utilityto be used in a variety of different housings or form factors (e.g., inthe female coupling 110, in the dual female fluid coupling device 200depicted in FIGS. 9-11 , and in others). The fluid coupling module 140can also be considered as a cartridge, a core, and the like.

The fluid coupling module 140 includes a module housing 142. In thedepicted embodiment, the module housing 142 is generally cylindrical,but other shapes are also possible. The module housing 142 defines alongitudinal axis 141 and an internal space 143.

The fluid coupling module 140 also includes a stem 144 that is disposedwithin the internal space 143. The stem 144 includes a base 145 (alsoshown in FIGS. 15-17 ) that is a first end portion of the stem 144. Thebase 145 of the stem 144 is affixed to an inner wall of the modulehousing 142. The stem 144 extends longitudinally along the longitudinalaxis 141 of the fluid coupling module 140. Accordingly, the stem 144 iscantilevered from the attachment of its base 145 to the module housing142.

The fluid coupling module 140 also includes a valve sleeve 150 that isdisposed within the internal space 143. The valve sleeve 150 (as alsoshown in FIGS. 12-14 ) defines an open central area 154 whereby thevalve sleeve 150 is disposed around the stem 144. Accordingly, the valvesleeve 150 is positioned between the stem 144 and the module housing142.

The valve sleeve 150 is movable longitudinally along the stem 144between a closed position (as shown) and an open position (when thevalve sleeve 150 is translated to the right in FIG. 7 , and as shown inFIG. 26 ). While the valve sleeve 150 is in the closed position (asshown), the valve sleeve 150 blocks a potential fluid flow path throughthe fluid coupling module 140 from being open. In contrast, when thevalve sleeve 150 is moved to its open position (e.g., as shown in FIG.26 ) then a fluid flow path is open through the fluid coupling module140 because the valve sleeve 150 is not fully blocking the fluid flowpath. Accordingly, the valve sleeve 150 functions with the stem 144 andthe module housing 142 as a valve assembly, to operably open or close afluid flow path through the fluid coupling module 140 via the internalspace 143 of the module housing 142.

The fluid coupling module 140 also includes multiple annular elastomericsealing members (or simply “seals”). The seals can be made of materialssuch as, but not limited to, silicone, fluoroelastomers (FKM), ethylenepropylene diene monomer (EPDM), thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), buna,buna-N, thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPV), thermosets, and the like.

For example, the fluid coupling module 140 includes a first elastomericseal 160 disposed between the stem 144 and an inner diameter of thevalve sleeve 150 while the valve sleeve 150 is in the closed position(as shown). The first elastomeric seal 160 is disposed in an annularseal groove 147 defined by a head 146 of the stem (also see FIGS. 15-17). As the valve sleeve 150 moves toward its open position (see FIG. 26), the valve sleeve 150 moves out of contact with the first elastomericseal 160.

The fluid coupling module 140 also includes a second elastomeric seal162 disposed between an outer diameter of the valve sleeve 150 and aninner diameter of the module housing 142 while the valve sleeve 150 isin the closed position (as shown). The second elastomeric seal 162remains in a fixed position relative to the module housing 142 such thatas the valve sleeve 150 moves toward its open position (see FIG. 26 ),the valve sleeve 150 moves out of contact with the second elastomericseal 162.

The fluid coupling module 140 also includes a third elastomeric seal 166disposed within the module internal space 143. The third elastomericseal 166 is adjacent the end of the module housing 142 that is oppositeof the end of the module housing 142 to which the base 145 of the stem144 is attached. When the fluid coupling module 140 is incorporated inthe female coupling 110 (e.g., see FIG. 3 ), the third elastomeric seal166 is positioned between the second elastomeric seal 162 and the firstopening 122. The third elastomeric seal 166 is configured to sealagainst the end portion 184 of the male coupling 180 (also refer to FIG.1 ) when the male coupling 180 is coupled with the female coupling 110.

The fluid coupling module 140 also includes a fourth elastomeric seal168 disposed around an outer end of the module housing 142. The fourthelastomeric seal 168 is positioned to abut against an inner diameter ofthe female housing 120 when the fluid coupling module 140 isincorporated in the female coupling 110 (e.g., see FIG. 3 ). The fourthelastomeric seal 168 can also be positioned elsewhere to seal againstthe female housing 120 (e.g., the fourth elastomeric seal 168 can be aface seal that abuts against the female housing 120).

In some embodiments, an annular spacer 164 is disposed between thesecond elastomeric seal 162 and the third elastomeric seal 166. Forexample, the annular spacer 164 can be press-fit into the inner diameterof the portion of the module housing 142 that is configured to receivethe second elastomeric seal 162 and the third elastomeric seal 166.

In some embodiments, the inner diameter surface of the third elastomericseal 166 is spaced apart from the valve sleeve 150 while the valvesleeve 150 is in the closed position, such that the third elastomericseal 166 and the valve sleeve 150 are never in contact with each otherwhatsoever. In some embodiments, a majority of an inner diameter surfaceof the third elastomeric seal 166 is spaced apart from the valve sleeve150 while the valve sleeve 150 is in the closed position.

The fluid coupling module 140 also includes a spring 170. The spring 170disposed between the base 145 of the stem 144 and the valve sleeve 150.Accordingly, the spring 170 biases the valve sleeve 150 toward itsclosed position.

As shown in the example of FIGS. 9-11 , the fluid coupling module 140 isconfigured to be modularly incorporated in various types of fluidcouplings having different form factors. In this example, a dual femalefluid coupling device 200 includes two of the fluid coupling modules 140(i.e., a first fluid coupling module 140 a and a second fluid couplingmodule 140 b). Accordingly, it should be understood that the design ofthe fluid coupling module 140 facilitates universal use of the fluidcoupling module 140 as a component in conjunction with many differenttypes of fluid couplings.

FIGS. 12-14 show the valve sleeve 150 in isolation so that its structurecan be seen in greater detail. The valve sleeve 150 defines the opencentral area 154 in which the stem 144 is disposed.

The outer diameter of the valve sleeve 150 includes a smaller outerdiameter portion 151 and a larger outer diameter portion 152. Thesmaller outer diameter portion 151 seals against the second elastomericseal 162 while the valve sleeve 150 is in its closed position (see FIGS.3 and 7 ). The larger outer diameter portion 152 runs against an innerdiameter of the module housing 142 as the valve sleeve 150 moves betweenits closed position (see FIGS. 3 and 7 ) and its open position (see FIG.26 ).

The transition between the smaller outer diameter portion 151 and thelarger outer diameter portion 152 abuts against an annular shoulder ofthe module housing 142 that extends radially inward (see FIGS. 3 and 7). The mechanical interference between the transition (between thesmaller outer diameter portion 151 and the larger outer diameter portion152) and the annular shoulder of the module housing 142 defines theclosed position of the valve sleeve 150 and blocks the valve sleeve 150from traveling farther away from the base 145 of the stem 144 inresponse to force from the spring 170.

The inner diameter of the valve sleeve 150 includes a smaller innerdiameter portion 155 and a larger inner diameter portion 156. Thesmaller inner diameter portion 155 seals against the first elastomericseal 160 while the valve sleeve 150 is in its closed position (see FIGS.3 and 7 ). The larger inner diameter portion 156 defines a pocket for anend portion of the spring 170, and an end coil of the spring 170 abutsagainst the transition between the smaller inner diameter portion 155and the larger inner diameter portion 156.

FIGS. 15-17 show the stem 144 in isolation so that its structure can beseen in greater detail. The stem 144 includes the base 145 at an endportion of the stem 144, and the head 146 at an opposite end portion ofthe stem 144. A fluted shaft 148 of the stem 144 extends between, andinterconnects, the base 145 and the head 146.

The base 145 is affixed to the module housing 142 at a second end 142 ₂of the module housing 142 (e.g., FIG. 7 ). The stem 144 extends alongthe longitudinal axis 141 of the module housing 142 toward the first end142 ₁ of the module housing 142. The first end 142 ₁ of the modulehousing 142 and the second end 142 ₂ of the module housing 142 are bothopen ends of the module housing 142 that lead to the module internalspace 143.

The base 145 defines one or more openings that fluidly connect secondend 142 ₂ of the module housing 142 to the module internal space 143. Inother words, the base 145 does not totally close off the module internalspace 143 from the space outside of the module housing 142. In thedepicted embodiment of the stem 144, the base 145 defines four openingsthat are each shaped as a quarter circle. The four openings 149 a, 149b, 149 c, and 149 d are best seen in FIGS. 5 and 8 .

FIGS. 18-20 show the female housing 120 in isolation so that itsstructure can be seen in greater detail. Here, the female housing 120 isshown without its termination portion 112. The female housing 120defines the first opening 122 that leads to a coupling internal space123 defined within the female housing 120. In the embodiment of thefemale coupling 110, the fluid coupling module 140 is disposed withinthe coupling internal space 123 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 3, 7, and 26 ).

In the depicted embodiment, the female housing 120 defines a transverseslot 125 that movably receives the plate portion of the latch mechanism130 that defines the opening 134 (e.g., see FIG. 3 ).

In the depicted embodiment, the female housing 120 includes a shroud 124that boarders the thumb plate 132 of the latch mechanism 130 (e.g., asshown in FIGS. 3 and 24 ). In the depicted embodiment, the thumb plate132 is slightly recessed below the top of the shroud 124 to help preventinadvertent depressions of the latch mechanism 130 (which could resultin an unintentional uncoupling the female coupling 110 and the malecoupling 180). The shroud 124 is an optional feature.

The inner diameter wall of an inner portion of the first opening 122defines a series of longitudinally extending slots 126 (e.g., as seen inFIGS. 3 and 20 ).

FIGS. 21-23 show the male coupling 180 in isolation so that itsstructure can be seen in greater detail. The male coupling 180 includesa male housing 185 that defines an internal space 186 and a longitudinalaxis 181. The male coupling 180 includes the termination portion 182that defines an opening 183 leading to the internal space 186. The malecoupling 180 also includes the end portion 184 (which is a portion ofthe male housing 185).

The male coupling 180 also includes a male coupling valve member 187movably disposed within the internal space 186 of the male housing 185.The male coupling valve member 187 includes a seal 188 that fluidlyseals the opening defined by the end portion 184 from the internal space186. The male coupling valve member 187 within the internal space 186 isslidable relative to the male housing 185 along the longitudinal axis181 of the male housing 185 between: (i) an open position in which afirst open end of the male housing 185 defined by the end portion 184 isfluidly connected to the opening 183 via the internal space 186 of themale housing 185 and (ii) a closed position (as shown in FIG. 23 ) inwhich the male coupling valve member 187 (and its seal 188) fluidlyblocks the first open end of the male housing 185 defined by the endportion 184 from being fluidly connected to the opening 183.

The male coupling 180 also includes a spring 190, disposed within theinternal space 186, that is arranged to bias the male coupling valvemember 187 toward its closed position. Coupling the male coupling 180with the female coupling 110 compresses the spring 190 and moves themale coupling valve member 187 from its closed position to its openposition.

FIGS. 24-26 show the fluid coupling assembly 100 in a coupledarrangement. That is, the female coupling 110 and the male coupling 180are coupled together, and their respective valves are open. Accordingly,an open fluid flow path 101 is established through the entire fluidcoupling assembly 100. The open fluid flow path 101 extends between: (i)the opening 113 defined by the termination portion 112 of the femalecoupling 110 and (ii) the opening 183 defined by the termination portion182 of the male coupling 180. The open fluid flow path 101 passesthrough the internal space 143 defined by the fluid coupling module 140within the female coupling 110 and through the internal space 186defined by the male housing 185 of the male coupling 180.

The valves of each of the couplings 110 and 180 are moved to their openpositions. For example, when the female coupling 110 and the malecoupling 180 are coupled together, the front face of the head 146 of thestem 144 of the fluid coupling module 140 abuts against the front faceof the male coupling valve member 187 so as to displace the malecoupling valve member 187 to its open position. In addition, when thefemale coupling 110 and the male coupling 180 are coupled together, theleading annular face of the end portion 184 of the male coupling 180abuts against the annular front face of the valve sleeve 150 of thefluid coupling module 140 so as to displace the valve sleeve 150 to itsopen position. Accordingly, the physical act of coupling the femalecoupling 110 and the male coupling 180 together opens their valves andcreates the open fluid flow path 101 through the fluid coupling assembly100.

Conversely, when the female coupling 110 and the male coupling 180 areuncoupled from each other, the springs 170 and 190 force the valvesleeve 150 and the male coupling valve member 187 back to their closedpositions so that both of the couplings halves 110 and 180 are sealed toprevent fluid from leaking out from the female coupling 110 and the malecoupling 180. Moreover, it can also be seen in FIG. 26 that there areessentially no open regions between the fluid coupling halves 110 and180 that provide volumetric space for fluid inclusion. Accordingly,there will be zero or essentially zero spillage or leakage when thevalve sleeve 150 and the male coupling valve member 187 are back intheir closed positions and the fluid coupling halves 110 and 180 areseparated from each other. Accordingly, there will be essentially nofluid spillage when the fluid coupling halves 110 and 180 are separatedfrom each other.

Referring to FIG. 27 , a fluid handling component coupler 300 (or moresimply stated hereinafter, “coupler 300”) can be used to join two fluidhandling components to each other. In some embodiments, the coupler 300is a unitary thermoplastic member that is made by injection molding. Inparticular embodiments, the coupler 300 is a unitary metallic memberthat is made by machining, die casting, or metal injection molding. Insome embodiments, the coupler 300 is assembled from multiple components.

As described further below, the coupler 300 can be used as part of thefemale and male couplings described herein. More broadly speaking,however, the coupler 300 can be used to join two fluid handlingcomponents of any type, design, or function to each other. For example,a fluid handling assembly can include a first fluid handling component,a second fluid handling component, and the coupler 300. The coupler 300can be used to attach the first and second fluid handling components toeach other. In some cases, the coupler 300 can be used to attach atermination component (e.g., a barb termination, threaded termination,sanitary fitting termination, and the like) to a second fluid handlingcomponent such as a coupling body, a tube, a housing, and the like,without limitation. The coupler 300 can be used to join two fluidhandling components of any type, design, and/or function to each other.

The coupler 300 includes a peripheral member 310 that defines an opening312 with a central axis 301. In the depicted embodiment, the peripheralmember 310 is an open cylinder with a circular cross-sectional shape. Insome embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the peripheral member 310can be other shapes such as, but not limited to, ovular, rectangular,oblong, elliptical, square, triangular, polygonal, and the like.

Extending or projecting radially inwardly from an inner wall of theperipheral member 310 are a first series of detainment elements 320 aand a second series of detainment elements 320 b. For example, in thedepicted embodiment the first series of detainment elements 320 aincludes four individual detainment elements 320 a that are equallyspaced apart from each other around the inner periphery of theperipheral member 310. Similarly, the second series of detainmentelements 320 b includes four individual detainment elements 320 b thatare equally spaced apart from each other around the inner periphery ofthe peripheral member 310.

While the detainment elements can have various configurations, in thedepicted embodiment the individual detainment elements of the first andsecond series of detainment elements 320 a and 320 b are ramps orratchet teeth that are arcuate. The leading ends (lower ends) of theramps or ratchet teeth are adjacent to the outer edges (rims) of theperipheral member 310. By “adjacent,” it is meant that the leading endsof the ramps or ratchet teeth can be exactly at the outer edges of theperipheral member 310 or recessed from the outer edges of the peripheralmember 310 by a short distance.

The heights of the individual detainment elements (ramps) increase alonga direction from the outer edge of the peripheral member 310 to whichthe detainment elements are adjacent toward the opposite outer edge ofthe peripheral member 310. Accordingly, the coupler 300 is configured toallow fluid handling components to be snapped into engagement with eachend of the coupler 300. In that manner, the coupler 300 can convenientlyconjoin two fluid handling components.

It can be seen in FIG. 27 that there are gaps between the individualdetainment elements of the first series of detainment elements 320 a.Similarly, there are gaps between the individual detainment elements ofthe second series of detainment elements 320 b. The individualdetainment elements of the second series of detainment elements 320 bare axially aligned (e.g., viewing along the central axis 301) with thegaps between the individual detainment elements of the first series ofdetainment elements 320 a. Similarly, the individual detainment elementsof the first series of detainment elements 320 a are axially alignedwith the gaps between the individual detainment elements of the firstseries of detainment elements 320 a. Accordingly, it can be said thateach detainment element of the first series of detainment elements 320 ais radially offset from each detainment element of the second series ofdetainment elements 320 b, and that each detainment element of thesecond series of detainment elements 320 b is radially offset from eachdetainment element of the first series of detainment elements 320 a.

In the depicted example coupler 300, each detainment element of thefirst and second series of the detainment elements 320 a-b extends forabout 45° along an arc around the central axis 301. In addition, each ofthe gaps between the first and second series of the detainment elements320 a-b extends for about 45° along an arc around the central axis 301.Other configurations are also possible while keeping to the same basicstructure. For example, in some embodiments the detainment elements 320a-b and the gaps extend about 60° along an arc around the central axis301, or about 90° along an arc around the central axis 301, or about 36°along an arc around the central axis 301, or about 30° along an arcaround the central axis 301, or about 20° along an arc around thecentral axis 301, without limitation.

FIG. 28 shows one example of how the coupler 300 can be used to conjointwo fluid handling components. In this example, the housing 120 of thefemale coupling 110 (as described above, e.g., see FIG. 3 ) is modifiedto use the coupler 300. Accordingly, the modified female coupling isreferred to in FIG. 28 as female coupling 110′, and the housing isreferred to as: (i) main body housing 120 a and (ii) termination housing120 b. In this example, the termination housing 120 b includes athreaded termination portion 112′ in contrast to the barbed terminationportion 112 of the female coupling 110. Accordingly, this example showshow the coupler 300 can be readily used to facilitate the combination ofdiffering types of termination portions in conjunction with the basedesign of the female coupling 110. This capability can thereby providemanufacturing efficiencies and/or user convenience (e.g., by allowingthe user to select a desired style of termination portion).

In the depicted example, the main body housing 120 a and the terminationhousing 120 b are conjoined (mechanically attached) by the coupler 300.In order for the mechanical attachment to be secure, each of the mainbody housing 120 a and the termination housing 120 b define one or morerecesses that receive(s) the detainment elements of the first and secondseries of detainment elements 320 a and 320 b. In some embodiments, theone or more recesses defined by the main body housing 120 a and thetermination housing 120 b are each an annular groove (extendingcontinuously, fully circumferentially). The illustration of femalecoupling 110′ shows two detainment elements of the coupler 300 engagedin a recess defined by the main body housing 120 a, but no detainmentelements of the coupler 300 are shown as engaged in a recess defined bythe termination housing 120 b. That is the case simply because thiscross-sectional view happens to cut through detainment elements that areengaged in the recess(es) defined by the main body housing 120 a, butdoes not cut through the detainment elements that are engaged in therecess(es) defined by the termination housing 120 b. While not visiblein this illustration, there are in fact detainment elements that areengaged in the recess(es) defined by the termination housing 120 b.

In the depicted embodiment, the coupler 300 allows for relative rotationof the main body housing 120 a with respect to the termination housing120 b. Alternatively, in some embodiments the coupler 300 (and/or thehousings 120 a-b) can be configured to prevent or restrict such relativerotation. For example, in some embodiments the coupler 300 can includeone or more keying elements that engage with one or more complementarystructural elements of the body housing 120 a and/or the terminationhousing 120 b to prevent or restrict relative rotation. In anotherexample, one or more of the detainment elements of the coupler 300 canbe structurally different than other detainment elements of the samecoupler 300, and such different detainment element(s) can be used tomate with one or more complementary structural element(s) (e.g.,different type of recess, such as deeper) of the body housing 120 aand/or the termination housing 120 b to prevent or restrict relativerotation.

FIG. 29 shows another example of how the coupler 300 can be used toconjoin two fluid handling components. In this example, the housing 185of the male coupling 180 (as described above, e.g., see FIG. 23 ) ismodified to use the coupler 300. Accordingly, the modified male couplingis referred to in FIG. 29 as male coupling 180′, and the housing isreferred to as: (i) main body housing 185 a and (ii) termination housing185 b. In this example, the termination housing 185 b includes athreaded termination portion 182′ in contrast to the barbed terminationportion 182 of the male coupling 180. Accordingly, this example showshow the coupler 300 can be readily used to facilitate the combination ofdiffering types of termination portions in conjunction with the basedesign of the male coupling 180. This capability can thereby providemanufacturing efficiencies and/or user convenience (e.g., by allowingthe user to select a desired style of termination portion). Moreover, insome embodiments the coupler 300 is reversible. Alternately, in someembodiments the coupler is non-reversible.

In the depicted example, the main body housing 185 a and the terminationhousing 185 b are conjoined (mechanically attached) by the coupler 300.In order for the mechanical attachment to be secure, each of the mainbody housing 185 a and the termination housing 185 b define one or moreannular recesses that receive(s) the detainment elements of the firstand second series of detainment elements 320 a and 320 b. In someembodiments, the annular recesses defined by the main body housing 185 aand the termination housing 185 b are each an annular groove (extendingcontinuously, fully circumferentially). The illustration of malecoupling 180′ shows two detainment elements of the coupler 300 engagedin a recess defined by the main body housing 185 a, but no detainmentelements of the coupler 300 are shown as engaged in a recess defined bythe termination housing 185 b. That is the case simply because thiscross-sectional view happens to cut through detainment elements that areengaged in the recess(es) defined by the main body housing 185 a, butdoes not cut through the detainment elements that are engaged in therecess(es) defined by the termination housing 185 b. While not visiblein this illustration, there are in fact detainment elements that areengaged in the recess(es) defined by the termination housing 185 b.

In the depicted embodiment, the coupler 300 allows for relative rotationof the main body housing 185 a with respect to the termination housing185 b. Alternatively, in some embodiments the coupler 300 (and/or thehousings 185 a-b) can be configured to prevent or restrict such relativerotation. For example, in some embodiments the coupler 300 can includeone or more keying elements that engage with one or more complementarystructural elements of the body housing 185 a and/or the terminationhousing 185 b to prevent or restrict relative rotation. In anotherexample, one or more of the detainment elements of the coupler 300 canbe structurally different than other detainment elements, and thatdifferent detainment element(s) can be used to mate with one or morecomplementary structural element(s) (e.g., different type of recess,such as deeper) of the body housing 185 a and/or the termination housing185 b to prevent or restrict relative rotation.

While this specification contains many specific implementation details,these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of anyinvention or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions offeatures that may be specific to particular embodiments of particularinventions. Certain features that are described in this specification inthe context of separate embodiments can also be implemented incombination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features thatare described in the context of a single embodiment can also beimplemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitablesubcombination. Moreover, although features may be described herein asacting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, oneor more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excisedfrom the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to asubcombination or variation of a subcombination.

Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in a particularorder, this should not be understood as requiring that such operationsbe performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, orthat all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirableresults. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processingmay be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system modulesand components in the embodiments described herein should not beunderstood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and itshould be understood that the described program components and systemscan generally be integrated together in a single product or packagedinto multiple products.

Particular embodiments of the subject matter have been described. Otherembodiments are within the scope of the following claims. For example,the actions recited in the claims can be performed in a different orderand still achieve desirable results. As one example, the processesdepicted in the accompanying figures do not necessarily require theparticular order shown to achieve desirable results. In certainimplementations, multitasking and parallel processing may beadvantageous.

What is claimed is:
 1. A fluid coupling device, comprising: a fluidcoupling housing defining a first opening leading to a coupling internalspace defined within the fluid coupling housing; and a fluid couplingmodule disposed within the coupling internal space, wherein the fluidcoupling module comprises: a module housing defining an internal spaceand a longitudinal axis, the module housing including: (i) a first enddefining a first end opening leading to the internal space and (ii) asecond end defining a second end opening leading to the internal space;and a valve within the internal space, wherein the valve isreconfigurable between: (i) a closed position in which the valve sealsthe first end opening off from the second end opening and (ii) an openposition in which the first end opening is fluidly connected to thesecond end opening via a fluid flow path, wherein the first end of themodule housing is abutted against a shoulder of the fluid couplinghousing that defines the first opening of the fluid coupling housing. 2.The fluid coupling device of claim 1, further comprising an elastomericseal disposed between the module housing and the fluid coupling housing.3. The fluid coupling device of claim 1, wherein the valve comprises avalve sleeve and a stem, wherein the stem is affixed to the second endof the module housing, wherein the stem further comprises a head on anend of the stem opposite of the base, and wherein the head defines anannular seal groove configured to receive an elastomeric seal.
 4. Thefluid coupling device of claim 3, further comprising: a firstelastomeric seal disposed between the stem and the valve sleeve whilethe valve sleeve is in the closed position; a second elastomeric sealdisposed between the valve sleeve and the module housing while the valvesleeve is in the closed position; and a third elastomeric seal disposedwithin the module internal space and positioned between the secondelastomeric seal and the first opening.
 5. The fluid coupling device ofclaim 4, wherein a majority of an inner diameter surface of the thirdelastomeric seal is spaced apart from the valve sleeve while the valvesleeve is in the closed position.
 6. The fluid coupling device of claim4, further comprising an annular spacer disposed between the second andthird elastomeric seals.
 7. The fluid coupling device of claim 3,wherein the stem comprises a base that is affixed to the module housing,and wherein the base defines one or more openings that fluidly connectthe second opening to the module internal space.
 8. The fluid couplingdevice of claim 7, wherein the one or more openings comprise fouropenings that are each shaped as a quarter circle.
 9. The fluid couplingdevice of claim 8, wherein the stem comprises a base that is affixed tothe module housing, and further comprising a spring disposed between thebase and the valve sleeve that biases the valve sleeve toward the closedposition.
 10. The fluid coupling device of claim 1, further comprising alatch mechanism adjacent to the first opening, the latch mechanismtransversely movable relative to the fluid coupling housing between: (i)a latched position in which a center of an opening defined by the latchmechanism is transversely offset in relation to a center of the firstopening and (ii) an unlatched position in which the opening defined bythe latch mechanism is concentric with the first opening.
 11. A fluidcoupling module comprising: a module housing defining an internal spaceand a longitudinal axis, the module housing including: (i) a first enddefining a first end opening leading to the internal space and (ii) asecond end defining a second end opening leading to the internal space;and a valve within the internal space, wherein the valve isreconfigurable between: (i) a closed position in which the valve sealsthe first end opening off from the second end opening and (ii) an openposition in which the first end opening is fluidly connected to thesecond end opening via a fluid flow path, wherein the fluid couplingmodule is a cartridge configured to be modularly incorporated in avariety of different form factors of fluid couplings or housings, andwherein, when the valve is in the open position, the fluid flow pathextends through the valve.
 12. The fluid coupling module of claim 11,wherein the base defines openings that fluidly connect the second endopening to the internal space.
 13. The fluid coupling module of claim12, wherein the openings comprise four openings that are each shaped asa quarter circle.
 14. The fluid coupling module of claim 11, wherein thevalve comprises a valve sleeve and a stem, wherein the stem is affixedto the second end of the module housing, wherein the stem furthercomprises a head on an end of the stem opposite of the base, and whereinthe head defines an annular seal groove configured to receive anelastomeric seal.
 15. The fluid coupling module of claim 14, furthercomprising: a first elastomeric seal disposed within the annular sealgroove and in contact with an inner diameter of the valve sleeve whilethe valve sleeve is in the closed position; a second elastomeric sealdisposed between an outer diameter of the valve sleeve and the modulehousing while the valve sleeve is in the closed position; and a thirdelastomeric seal disposed within the module internal space andpositioned between the second elastomeric seal and the first endopening.
 16. The fluid coupling module of claim 15, further comprisingan annular spacer disposed between the second and third elastomericseals, and in contact with each of the second and third elastomericseals.
 17. The fluid coupling module of claim 11, further comprising aspring that biases the valve toward the closed position.
 18. A fluidcoupling device, comprising: a fluid coupling housing defining a firstopening leading to a first coupling internal space defined within thefluid coupling housing and a second opening leading to the firstcoupling internal space; and the fluid coupling module of claim 11disposed within the first coupling internal space.
 19. An assembly offluid handling components, the assembly comprising: a first fluidhandling component; a second fluid handling component; and a fluidhandling component coupler that conjoins the first and second fluidhandling components to each other, wherein the fluid handling componentcoupler comprises: a peripheral member defining an opening extendingalong a central axis, the opening configured to receive end portions ofeach of the first and second fluid handling components; a first seriesof arcuate detainment elements radially spaced apart from each other andprojecting radially inward toward the central axis; and a second seriesof arcuate detainment elements radially spaced apart from each other andprojecting radially inward toward the central axis.
 20. The assembly ofclaim 19, wherein each arcuate detainment element of the first series ofarcuate detainment elements is radially offset from each arcuatedetainment element of the second series of arcuate detainment elements,and wherein each arcuate detainment element of the second series ofarcuate detainment elements is radially offset from each arcuatedetainment element of the first series of arcuate detainment elements.